Busy weeknights call for simple solutions that don’t compromise on flavor. This fantastic one-pan chicken broccoli recipe delivers exactly that. Forget complicated steps and endless cleanup; this dish comes together quickly in a single pan, making it a dream for any home cook. You’ll love the savory, slightly sweet, and garlicky flavors in every bite. Get ready to transform your dinner routine with this irresistible meal!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Broccoli Recipe
This recipe is designed for ease and flavor, making it a perfect addition to your weekly rotation. You’ll find yourself returning to this delicious one-pan wonder time and time again.
- Ready in Under 30 Minutes: From prep to plate, you can have a wholesome meal on the table in less than half an hour.
- Simple, Minimal Cleanup: Everything cooks in one pan, drastically cutting down on post-dinner chores.
- Better Than Takeout Flavors: Achieve rich, savory notes typically found in your favorite restaurant dishes right at home.
- Customizable with Pantry Staples: Use ingredients you likely already have, or easily adapt based on what’s in your fridge.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish holds up beautifully, making it an excellent option for healthy lunches throughout the week.
Ingredients
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful one-pan chicken and broccoli. This recipe focuses on fresh, accessible items that pack a punch. This easy chicken broccoli recipe will become a household favorite.
- 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/3 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon finely grated peeled ginger
- 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon neutral oil (like canola or vegetable)
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
- 2 medium heads of broccoli, cut into bite-sized florets
- Cooked brown or white rice and toasted sesame seeds, for serving
Notes & Substitutions
- Chicken: Chicken thighs stay juicier and are more forgiving if slightly overcooked. Chicken breasts work well too; just be careful not to overcook them to maintain tenderness. Cut pieces evenly for consistent cooking.
- Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is preferred for crispness. If using frozen broccoli, add it directly to the pan from frozen after the chicken is cooked, then proceed with the sauce. You might need an extra minute or two for it to become crisp-tender.
- Sauce (Soy Sauce, Broth): Using low-sodium options allows you to control the saltiness. You can always add more salt if needed. For gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Ginger/Garlic: Freshly grated ginger and finely chopped garlic offer the best flavor. In a pinch, you can use 1 teaspoon of ground ginger and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, though fresh is highly recommended.
- Honey: Maple syrup or brown sugar can be used as alternatives to honey, adjusting to your desired sweetness level.
- Cornstarch: This is crucial for thickening the sauce. Understanding the culinary science behind this technique helps ensure a smooth, lump-free sauce. Always make a slurry by dissolving it in a cold liquid (like the broth here) before adding to hot food to prevent lumps.
- Oil: Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point such as canola, vegetable, or grapeseed oil for searing the chicken effectively.
Equipment
You only need a few basic kitchen tools to bring this one-pan dish to life. Simplicity is key for this quick recipe.
- Large Skillet or Wok: Essential for cooking everything in one pan.
- Cutting Board and Sharp Knife: For preparing the chicken and broccoli.
- Whisk: To easily combine the sauce ingredients until smooth.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient quantities.
Instructions
Creating this flavorful chicken broccoli recipe is incredibly straightforward. Follow these steps for a delicious meal with minimal effort and quick cleanup.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the chopped garlic, chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, cornstarch, grated ginger, and sesame oil. Whisk until the cornstarch is completely dissolved and the mixture is smooth. This ensures your sauce will thicken beautifully without lumps.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat the neutral oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook the chicken, undisturbed, for 1 to 2 minutes until it easily releases from the pan and has a golden-brown sear. Stir the chicken and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, for about 5 more minutes until all sides are golden brown and the chicken is just cooked through. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate, leaving any rendered juices in the skillet.
- Steam the Broccoli with Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the broccoli florets to the same skillet. Pour the whisked garlic-broth mixture over the broccoli. Cover the skillet tightly with a lid and let the broccoli steam for 2 to 3 minutes, or until it reaches a crisp-tender texture. The steam will help cook the broccoli evenly while infusing it with the sauce’s flavors.
- Combine and Thicken: Uncover the skillet. Return the cooked chicken and any accumulated juices from the plate to the pan with the broccoli. Increase the heat slightly to medium. Cook, stirring continuously, for 1 to 2 minutes more. The sauce will rapidly thicken and coat the chicken and broccoli beautifully, creating a glossy finish.
- Serve Immediately: Divide the cooked rice among plates or bowls. Spoon generous portions of the hot chicken and broccoli stir-fry over the rice. Garnish with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for an extra layer of flavor and texture. Serve this delightful meal right away for the best experience.
Pro Tips for Success
Achieving perfect results with this dish is simple with a few smart techniques. These tips will help you master this quick and easy meal.
- Prep Ahead: Chop your chicken, broccoli, and whisk the sauce ingredients earlier in the day. This makes dinner assembly even faster.
- High Heat Cooking: Use high heat for the chicken to get a good sear, locking in juices and adding flavor.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook chicken in batches if necessary. Overcrowding lowers the pan temperature, leading to steaming instead of searing.
- Perfect Broccoli Texture: Steam the broccoli just until it’s crisp-tender. It should still have a slight bite, not be mushy.
- Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water. If too thin, mix a tiny bit more cornstarch with cold water into a slurry and stir into the simmering sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Dissolving Cornstarch Properly: Always mix cornstarch with a cold liquid first to prevent lumpy sauce.
- Overcooking Chicken or Broccoli: Chicken can become dry and tough; broccoli turns soft and loses its vibrant color.
- Using a Cold Pan or Insufficient Oil: This prevents a good sear on the chicken and can cause it to stick.
Serving Suggestions, Storage & Variations
This versatile chicken broccoli recipe pairs well with many sides and adapts easily to your preferences. It’s a fantastic meal for any occasion.
Serving: Serve this stir-fry over fluffy white rice or nutritious brown rice. It’s also excellent with noodles, quinoa, or even just alongside a simple green salad for a low-carb option.
Garnishes: Enhance your dish with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, a dash of chili flakes for heat, or fresh sliced green onions for a pop of color and mild onion flavor.
Make it Spicy: For a kick, add a teaspoon of Sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture. You can also drizzle some chili oil over the finished dish.
Other Vegetables: Feel free to incorporate other quick-cooking vegetables. Bell peppers, carrots (sliced thinly), snap peas, or sliced mushrooms are great additions. Add them with the broccoli or slightly earlier if they need more cooking time.
Protein Swaps: This sauce works wonderfully with other proteins. Try it with cubed tofu for a vegetarian meal, or quick-cooking shrimp (add at the very end as shrimp cooks quickly).
Storage: Store any leftover chicken and broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For comprehensive guidance on safe food storage periods, consult official government resources. FoodSafety.gov’s cold food storage chart provides detailed information. This makes it perfect for meal prepping your lunches.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce seems too thick.
Nutrition Information
This easy one-pan chicken and broccoli is a balanced and satisfying meal, packed with lean protein and wholesome vegetables.
| Nutrient | Estimated Value Per Serving (approx. 1/4 recipe) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350-400 kcal |
| Total Fat | 12-15g |
| Saturated Fat | 2-3g |
| Cholesterol | 80-90mg |
| Sodium | 600-700mg |
| Total Carbs | 30-35g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3-4g |
| Sugars | 15-20g |
| Protein | 35-40g |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and preparation methods. This estimate does not include rice.
FAQ
- Can I use frozen broccoli? Yes, absolutely! Add frozen broccoli directly to the pan with the sauce. You might need to cook it for an extra 1-2 minutes until it’s crisp-tender.
- What if my sauce is too thin/thick? If too thin, make a small cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp cold water) and stir it into the simmering sauce. If too thick, add a tablespoon of chicken broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- How to ensure chicken is tender? Cut chicken into even pieces and avoid overcooking. Sear quickly over high heat, then cook until just done. Using chicken thighs also helps keep the chicken tender.
- Can I make this gluten-free? Easily! Simply substitute reduced-sodium soy sauce with tamari, which is a gluten-free alternative. Ensure your chicken broth is also gluten-free.
- Is this recipe good for meal prepping? Yes, it’s excellent for meal prepping. This chicken broccoli recipe stores well in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it perfect for lunches throughout the week.
Conclusion
This easy one-pan chicken broccoli recipe truly delivers on flavor, convenience, and health. It’s the perfect solution for busy parents and beginners looking for a simple, delicious meal that comes together in a flash. With its savory-sweet sauce and tender chicken and broccoli, it’s bound to become a new family favorite. Give it a try tonight! We’d love to hear how it turned out. Share your creations, rate the recipe, or leave a comment below!